YarnSmarts Virtual Classes Nov. 13 - 16, 2025
Bear Claws Workshop Fri., Nov. 14 11AM -1 PM & 3-5 PM
The Bear Claws Wrap is an engaging striped colorwork project featuring
a large scale flame stitch motif. The pattern is relatively simple, using only
a few rows of shaping in combination with color to create a distinct claw
motif. We will start class with an introduction to the stacked increase
and decrease technique. Then we'll cast on a swatch of the Bear Claw
motif work a portion of the pattern while learning to read stacked stitch
patterns. Students will learn ways to check their own work and fix any
problems that arise at home while testing out their new yarn and color
choice in the pattern.
Requirements: This class is best suited for intermediate level knitters
or adventurous beginners who have experience reading patterns and
working basic increases and decreases.
https://umass.irisregistration.com/Site/Yarn
Colorwork Games (open to crocheters) Sat., Nov. 15 11 AM - 1 PM
If you love playing with geometry and want to combine your fiber arts with some fun math puzzles and games, this class is made for you! The class begins with an introduction to tiled patterns. We’ll look at Truchet tiles and learn how to use rotational symmetry to turn a simple group of tiles into varied designs. Students will have chance to cut out, fill in, and play with their own tile sets. Once we’ve made some fun patterns with simple tiles, we’ll move on to edge matched tiling.These tile sets are used to create random patterns that look seamless (think of randomly generated maps in video games). These tile sets are surprisingly easy to create, and we will go over various strategies for creating edge matched tiles. Students will have time in class to create their own colorwork tile sets on paper and explore the possibilities. At the end of class, students can share their
colorwork designs.
Requirements: Students should be familiar with 2 color stranded colorwork,
crochet colorwork, or quilt piecing.
Make a Mini Glenbrook Pull-through Scarf Sat., Nov. 15 3-5 PM
The Glenbrook Scarf is designed for less knitting and more warmth. It is half the
length of a traditional winter scarf, but the pull-through channel allows you to easily
and securely tie this scarf around your neck. When you aren’t wearing it, the scarf
rolls up and can be secured with the loop for tidy storage. In class, we will learn
multiple useful techniques that are used to create the scarf project. Stitches are cast
on using Judy’s Magic Cast On - an invisible cast on method, useful in stockinette
stitch projects. Students will work a few rows, then learn to join the ends of the fabric
into a tube or hem. The remainder of the scarf is worked in ribbing with yarns held
double. Towards the end of class, we will finish off the scarf by learning to work a
tubular bind off.
Requirements: This class is best suited for intermediate level knitters who have experience reading patterns and are ready to learn advanced techniques.
Supplies: 170 yards of DK weight yarn for the small project or 440 yds for the full sized scarf, Size 8 (5mm) circular needles with a 24-32” (60-80 cm) cord, Size 10 (6mm) needles, Tapestry
needle. You may want to bring some locking stitch markers to be used to hold live stitches.
